Work visas
Lebanese Work Visa and Work Permit
The main employment route, combining a Ministry of Labour work permit with a General Security work and entry visa plus a residence permit for foreign nationals taking up a job in Lebanon.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Work-permit categories, fees, validity and renewal limits are set by the Ministry of Labour and change; verify against the Ministry of Labour before publication.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Lebanon government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Work permit (Ministry of Labour) + work/entry visa and residence permit (General Security)
- Route type
- Work
- Sponsorship
- Requires a registered Lebanese employer/sponsor
- Validity
- Work permit typically issued for one year and renewable
- Confirm current validity/renewal limits with the Ministry of Labour
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with a job offer from a Lebanese employer
- Company representatives, specialists and staff sponsored by a registered business
Requirements
- A Lebanese employer/sponsor who applies to the Ministry of Labour for the work permit
- Employment contract and employer commercial registration documents
- Valid passport, application form and photographs
- A residence permit application to General Security once the work permit and visa are approved
What you can do
- Work legally for the sponsoring employer in the permitted category
- Apply for a matching one- or two-year residence permit
- Renew while the work permit remains valid
How to apply
- Employer applies for the work permit through the Ministry of Labour
- Obtain the entry/work visa via General Security or a Lebanese mission
- Register with a General Security regional bureau and apply for the residence permit after arrival
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.